Police have launched a murder investigation after a pregnant woman was stabbed to death at her home in County Armagh. Natalie McNally died on Sunday in Lurgan in what police have described as a “double tragedy”. DCI John Caldwell confirmed on Wednesday that McNally was 15 weeks pregnant. He said the 32-year-old had died after being stabbed a number of times and sustaining defensive injuries. “She was murdered at her home in the Silverwood Green area of the town, and evidence now suggests that she was murdered on the night of Sunday 18 December,” he said. “Officers were called to the property along with colleagues from the Northern Ireland ambulance service. Sadly Natalie was pronounced dead at the scene. It is distressing to add that Natalie was in fact 15 weeks pregnant. “This fatal attack, which happened in her own home, has therefore resulted in a double tragedy: the death of a mother-to-be, along with her unborn baby.” A man was arrested on suspicion of murder and released on bail on Tuesday pending further inquiries. Caldwell described McNally as “much loved by her devoted parents and family”. “My thoughts are with them at this time,” he said. “Her death has left family and friends devastated, and the local community in shock. What should have been a happy time in the run-up to Christmas has changed to unimaginable grief and heartache. “I am asking anyone with information about this murder to please come forward. In particular, I am appealing to motorists who were travelling on the Kiln Road, Lurgan, on Sunday 18 December, between 8.45pm and 9.45pm, and who may have captured dashcam footage of this journey. “Please contact detectives on 101, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.” The Social Democratic and Labour party councillor Séamas de Faoite paid tribute to McNally on Twitter. “The last time I got a good chat with Natalie, she was heading home with her parents from Belfast Pride. She was so happy and buzzing after having an amazing day,” he wrote. “I cannot believe this has happened. I’m in disbelief.” The Democratic Unionist party MP Carla Lockhart tweeted: “There are just no words in situations like this. Two lives lost in the most horrific circumstances. Keep praying for this family as they deal with all that is unfolding. Anyone with any information, please come forward to the police or the confidential hotline.” Caldwell said there would be an increased police presence in the area and added that he was “grateful to members of the public for their ongoing support”.